The Alpha Project Peer Nomination Simulation

1. "Now, let's make-believe we are all the 'thinkers;' does anyone have any good ideas about how
we can get out of Room _____ "
(Teacher opens discussion to group. Make a mental note of any unusual but constructive
responses from the group.)
2. "Now, what would happen if we decided to pick three people in Room _____ to 'think' of a way
we could get out. Who do you feel are the best 'thinkers' in Room _____ who could 'think' of a
good and safe way to get out of the room"
a.
b.
c.
(Teacher may ask why these children are chosen to insure that children are not just singling out
their friends, etc.)
3. "Now, while these three children are thinking of a way to get us out of Room _____, let's name
three people in the class you feel are the best story-tellers. We need someone to tell us good
stories so that we would not be sad while the 'thinkers' are working on a way of getting us safely
out. Can you name three good story-tellers in Room _____ "
a.
b.
c.
Teacher and Recorder should comment on how this activity went.
First and Third Grades
ACTIVITY II
Let's Make-Believe
Directions:
Same as Activity I, except with this activity responses should be recorded on the form.
Introduction:
(Teacher) "I can tell you were 'thinking' very carefully about your answers. Let's play another game
of make-believe. Let's begin all over again.
Let's make-believe one morning you woke up, climbed out of bed, and called for your mother, but
she was not there. As a matter of fact, there were no 'big' people at your house at all. You decided to get
dressed by yourself and come to school.
When you got to Room - you saw all of your friends-and guess what They could find no 'big'
people at their homes either. In fact, there were no 'big' people at school, including me and (name
anyone [adult] present in the room).
Let's think-you're all in Room -and there are no 'big' people anywhere. Now, it's up to you to run
things." (Teacher must elaborate here. She might mention certain jobs that have to be done for the
welfare of community i.e., Who will deliver the mail Who will be the President What is a President)"